Prunus virginiana ‘Canada Red’
SIZE: 20’ to 30’ tall by 18’ to 25’ wide
HARDINESS: zones 2 to 6
LIGHT: full sun
SHAPE: full, oval to round crown, nicely shaped
RATE: relatively fast
FLOWERS: small white flowers on 3” to 6” long racemes in April or May
OTHER FEATURES:
Leaves change from green to deep reddish purple in early summer.
Numerous red round fruits ripen to a dark purple.
Fruit is edible and is used for jellies, pies, sauces, and wine (CAUTION: seeds are poisonous to humans).
Native to much of the United States and Canada
Remarkably drought-tolerant
Supports native wildlife, especially birds
Multi-seasonal interest
Consider the Benefits of Planting Natives!
POSSIBLE LANDSCAPE USES:
Relatively dry locations
Focal point in a lawn or mixed bed
See Tips for Designing your home landscape.
PRUNING:
Little pruning is required.
Removal of suckering shoots at ground level may be required.
Learn more about Basic Pruning Principles.
COMPANION PLANTS:
For an orange-red-purple analogic color scheme, use dwarf fothergilla for reddish-orange fall color, sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ for dusty pink flowers, or prairie dropseed (an ornamental grass) for pink-brown blooms and orange fall color. Prairie dropseed will also add diversity in plant texture.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS:
This tree can withstand partial shade, but fruit production will be reduced.
Water regularly during the first year to establish a healthy root system.